Loan Modification Document Checklist

Home loan modification may be the best way to get out of delinquency and save your home. But promising as it is, a loan modification can only work if you do your part in the process. Reports from major lenders show that most loan modifications fail because people don’t comply with the requirements, particularly when it comes to paperwork. It may seem like a big task, but it’s not as complicated as it seems – and it’s always worth the effort to save your home.

Your home loan modification attorney can help you gather the documents you need to complete your application. To help you get started, here’s a list of loan modification documents required by most major lenders.

Hardship letter This is basically a letter explaining the circumstances of your default and how you have recovered. Make sure every claim can be backed up with solid evidence such as bank records, and don’t exaggerate or play down details. Your home loan modification attorney can help you draft your letter to meet your lender’s standards. Most lenders also require a photo ID and a copy of your social security card.

Proof of income Steady income is one of the main requirements for a home loan modification. Your bank will want to see proof that you’ll be able to make your payments once the loan is modified. The general requirement is two months’ worth of pay stubs and tax returns for the last two years, or if you’re self-employed, your latest IRS filing plus proof of two months’ worth of income. If you’re getting child support, pension, or other sources of income, you’ll need to provide proof of these as well.

Financial status Your bank will want to know how your current finances are, and whether you have assets other than your home. Provide bank statements from your current accounts, including checking and savings. If applicable, you can also submit statements from your 401(K), profit sharing plan, IRA, or retirement account. Investment accounts such as stocks and bonds can also serve as proof of assets. Your home loan modification attorney can help you determine which ones will be most valuable in your case.

Mortgage documents Most lenders will ask for your latest mortgage statement, as well as any recent correspondence you have received from them. If your mortgage payment doesn’t include insurance and taxes, you may need to provide these statements as well.

Other bills Not all lenders will require utility bills such as gas, electricity, phone and water, but it won’t hurt to put in some as well. These will give your bank an idea of your monthly expenditure, which in turn helps them find a suitable home loan modification plan. Other useful documents include garbage pickup bills, home insurance policies, and homeowners’ association dues.